Can you have a baby milestone session, family portraits, extended family portraits, and wedding photos all in one day? When all the stars align, the answer is yes—and that’s just what happened with Sarah, Joe, and their sweet baby, Elle. This beautiful backyard wedding reception was a dream.

I first met Sarah and Joe back in March when I had the honor of capturing newborn photos for their brand-baby girl at home. Tiny fingers, sleepy smiles, and a love that was already so evident—it was one of those sessions where you just know you’ll get to see more chapters of a family’s story unfold. Fast forward to June, and not only did I get to see them again, but I also got to document one of the most beautiful celebrations: their backyard wedding reception in Oak Forest, surrounded by friends, family, and all the love you could imagine.

A Wedding Day With Baby in Tow

Sarah and Joe had officially tied the knot earlier, when Elle was still tucked safely inside her mama’s belly. But they knew they wanted to celebrate again—with her there in person this time. And oh, did she steal the show.

Dressed in a darling white dress with layers of tulle, Elle looked like a little doll. Her big blue eyes sparkled in the sunlight, framed by long lashes that seemed impossibly perfect, and her rosebud lips were quick to turn into the sweetest smiles. My favorite detail? Her “something blue” bow, which had been lovingly saved from Sarah’s wedding bouquet.

Throughout the day, Elle was bright-eyed and joyful, happily being passed from one adoring set of arms to another—until, of course, she decided the dance floor was the perfect spot for a little evening nap.

The Warmest Backyard Celebration

Walking up to Sarah and Joe’s brand-new home, I felt like I was stepping into a place where love already lived in every corner. The backyard, dressed up for the occasion, became the perfect setting for a special summer celebration.

It was a scorcher of a day (97 degrees to be exact), but no one seemed to mind. The warmth wasn’t just from the sun. It radiated from the guests, from the way friends laughed together under the trees, and from the way Sarah and Joe stole glances at each other as if no one else was there.

Dinner was served al fresco, courtesy of a taco truck parked right in the driveway. Coolers overflowed with cold drinks, and every detail felt perfectly “them”—relaxed, joyful, and welcoming. Cubs fans through and through, they even served ice cream in mini Cubs helmet bowls, which made everyone smile (and kept the little ones occupied between dance floor appearances).

The Sweetest Little Moments

Speaking of the little ones—Sarah’s five nieces were like a flurry of fairy princesses throughout the evening. Their swishy dresses caught the light as they spun in circles on the grass. But, of course, they never stayed in one place for long. Every few minutes, I’d find them climbing the tree in the backyard, their laughter filling the air. Nothing could slow them down—except for the promise of ice cream.

And then there were the dances. Sarah and Joe shared a sweet moment on the dance floor, but the one that had everyone tearing up was Joe’s dance with Elle. Few things rival the sight of this proud dad swaying with his baby girl in his arms. I’ll admit it—this wedding photographer had tears streaming down my face behind the camera. It was the kind of moment that reminds you why photos matter so much.

Portraits, Milestones, and Memories

Before the party even started, we had time for portraits—lots of them. Family portraits, extended family portraits, and milestone moments with Elle were woven seamlessly into the flow of the day. It was such a gift to capture so many chapters of their family story in just a few hours.

From baby giggles to multi-generational group shots to romantic portraits of Sarah and Joe, the day became a collection of memories layered together. This day was proof that when you lean into the chaos and joy of family life, you can truly have it all.

This is Just the Beginning!

What struck me most about Sarah and Joe’s Oak Forest backyard wedding wasn’t just the beauty of the details (though those were fabulous) or the laughter echoing through the evening (though it was magical). It was the feeling that this was just the beginning.

They’ve already built so much—a marriage rooted in love, a home filled with joy, a family brought closer with this tiny, incredible girl. This reception wasn’t just a wedding celebration; it was a celebration of everything they’ve built together and everything still to come.

When Sarah first reached out to me, I had this gut feeling—this little nudge I sometimes get with clients—that she and Joe were “my people.” Down-to-earth and kind; the kind of folks who make you feel like family from the moment you meet them. And now, after documenting both their newborn session and their wedding reception, I know it’s true!

Cheers to Sarah, Joe, and Baby Elle

At the end of the night, as the fairy lights twinkled and the last notes of music drifted into the summer air, I felt a wave of gratitute. It’s truly one of my greatest joys in life to freeze moments like these through photography. Watching all of those little girls spin around the dancefloor and cousins giggling together was something special.

Cheers to you, Sarah and Joe. The life you’re building together has started off so beautifully, and I can’t wait to see where it takes you. And to sweet Elle—you may have shared the stage on your parents’ wedding day, but I think it’s safe to say you completely stole the show. And they wouldn’t have it any other way.

Have Your Own Special Day Coming Up?